Poland is considering a US proposal to acquire around 250 used Stryker armored vehicles for a symbolic price of just one dollar. According to Polish officials, the possibility is being weighed as Warsaw seeks to rapidly expand its ground forces amid growing regional security threats. The vehicles would most likely come from US Army units currently based in Europe rather than returning to the United States.
A spokesperson for US Army Europe clarified that the transfer would occur through a Foreign Military Sales framework and is not linked to changes in US military posture on the continent. Developed by General Dynamics Land Systems, the 8×8 Stryker vehicles will undergo technical evaluations in Poland to assess their condition, expected service life, and the scope of required upgrades.
Despite the symbolic purchase price, Polish authorities expect significant modernization, training, and logistics costs, largely because the Polish military has never operated the Stryker platform. Analysts warn that maintenance and refurbishment expenses could be considerable and may challenge Poland’s current defense budget priorities. Local industry leaders also expressed concern that the acquisition could undermine demand for Poland’s own Rosomak armored vehicle, which performs similar operational roles.
However, senior military leaders argue that the acquisition is justified by the current security environment and equipment shortages, noting that diversified platforms will strengthen interoperability with NATO allies already fielding the Stryker. A final decision is expected in the second half of 2026, pending technical assessments and the evolving regional threat picture, according to Poland’s Chief of the General Staff.
